41 life lessons learned from my mom

What’s the single most important lesson you’ve learned from your mom? That was a question that came up on a radio talk show the other morning. I was driving the kids to school so I couldn’t really listen to the actual discussion. But it got me thinking. One lesson? Wow. I can’t just name one. There are so many. I’m still learning so much from her every day. Like did you know how beneficial black sesame seeds are? No but seriously…there are so many important lessons I’ve learned in my 36 years from this incredible person so to name just one…that’s a challenge.

lessons learned from mom

So the other night I gave myself a different challenge. I took out my journal, set a timer for two minutes and I just started to write. I scribbled down so many of the lessons…the many, many big and small but so very important lessons that this woman…this small but with a big heart 5 foot woman has taught me. This isn’t everything I’ve gained from mom and they certainly aren’t in any order…just in the order in which they basically came to me.   I encourage you to try it out; it’s a neat activity. And take time to share what you come up with, with your mother. It’s important for her to know that these lessons are now your truths. That it is greatly due to her influence which has shaped your values and beliefs. Values and beliefs which are now influencing your own kids.

Shraddha

1. Less is more (with everything).
2. Don’t be so quick to throw away. Reuse. Repurpose.
3. Home cooking is the best cooking.
4. Keep it simple.
5. Be flexible to change.
6. Treat books with ultimate respect.
7. Remember to make time for prayer, spirituality.
8. See the best in people.
9. Success doesn’t equal money. Be humble.
10. Cucumbers are the best at home spa treatment…two thin slices on your eyes.
11. Don’t judge other people’s beliefs.
12. Eat together as a family. And share meals with others.
13. Moderation is key.
14. Make sure to make time for exercise.
15. Drink warm lemon water everyday…add honey, turmeric, ginger too.
16. Respect Mother Earth.
17. Don’t close off your heart – an open heart is the happiest.
18. Make your bed every day.
19. Forgive and ask for forgiveness.
20. Keep what you read and watch (for fun) positive.
21. Play music every day. And sing along.
22. Make time to keep social connections strong. Family and strong friendships are important.
23. Don’t keep score.
24. Give back, donate time or money or both. No matter how small, it matters.
25. Keep whatever space you have, tidy.
26. Take deep breaths.
27. Quality over quantity, always.
28. Be there for family during good and bad times.
29. You have to make sacrifices.
30. See the positive in each situation.
31. Eat fresh as possible and less processed food.
32. Treat everyone, everything with respect.
33. Value money…bend down for even a penny.
34. Turn off the faucet when you brush. Turn off the lights when you leave the room.
35. Give thanks for meals.
36. Don’t need face full of make-up.
37. Never let your car get to empty.
38. Put coconut oil in your hair.
39. If you do what’s fair and right, then don’t worry what others think.
40. Accept the differences in others as an opportunity to grow and learn.
41. Be kind.  Be the one to say sorry.  It doesn’t make you weak.  Makes you stronger.